Why probiotics matter

Fast facts

Without them, it’s much harder to digest food and absorb important nutrients.

L. Casei supplements are often used to prevent or treat diarrhea.

You barely give them a thought, but deep within your gut, there’s a whole world of living organisms. Maybe it sounds a bit unsettling, but most of them are there for your own good.

One of those microorganisms is called Lactobacillus casei, or L. casei. It’s one of many friendly bacteria that call your digestive system home. You probably also have some in your urinary and genital tracts.

These helpful organisms are also known as probiotics.

Unlike the harmful bacteria that make you sick, probiotics like L. casei are beneficial to your digestive system. Actually, your body depends on them. Without them, it’s much harder to digest food and absorb important nutrients.

Did you know?

“Prebiotics” are non-digestible food ingredients that encourage the growth of good bacteria. “Synbiotics” are a combination of prebiotics and probiotics.

They also help keep some of the more harmful microorganisms under control. If you don’t have enough of the good bacteria, things can get out of balance and cause trouble.

There are many types of probiotics. Along with Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus is among the most common. Within these two types of probiotics, there are many varieties.

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Benefits

What are the benefits of Lactobacillus Casei?

When you don’t have enough of the good bacteria, adding more L. Casei to your dietcan help regulate your digestive system.

Probiotic supplements containing L. Casei are used to prevent or treat diarrhea. This includes infectious diarrhea, traveler’s diarrhea, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

What the research says

Probiotics such as L. casei are generally considered safe and potentially helpful in regulating the digestive system. There have been many promising studies involving L. casei.

Researchers in a 2007 trial studied a probiotic drink containing L. casei, L. bulgaricus, and S. thermophiles. They concluded that it may reduce the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and C. difficile-associated diarrhea. No adverse events were reported.

A 2003 study showed that a probiotic drink containing Lactobacillus casei Shirota was a beneficial adjunctive therapy for people with chronic constipation. A later study looked at people with Parkinson’s disease. That one revealed that regular intake of milk fermented with Lactobacillus casei Shirota can improve bowel habits of people with the disease.

Researchers for a 2014 clinical trial found that L. casei supplements can help alleviate symptoms and improve inflammatory cytokines in women with RA.

There is a growing body of research into L. casei and other probiotics. But to date, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t approved L. casei or any other probiotic for the treatment of a specific health problem.

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How to

How to use this probiotic

L. casei is naturally found in the gut. Some fermented foods contain L. casei, too. These include some yogurts, yogurt-like fermented milk, and certain cheeses.

Dietary supplements containing L. casei and other probiotics can be found in health food stores or wherever dietary supplements are sold. When shopping for probiotics, it pays to read labels carefully. Follow directions for storage and take expiration dates seriously.

Studies regarding dosage are lacking. There are no definitive guidelines. Read product labels carefully and ask your physician or pharmacist how much you should take.

Risks and warnings

Risks and warnings

Most people can consume probiotics without side effects. Of those who do, one of the most common side effects is mild gas. If that happens, try cutting back on your dose and gradually raising it again.

Severe side effects from probiotic use have been reported, including dangerous infections. The risk of such side effects is greater if you have a serious medical condition or weakened immune system.

There isn’t much information regarding the long-term safety of probiotics. More studies are needed to determine who is most likely to benefit from them.